London, Feb 25 (IANS) Popular singer Shakira has opened up about her decision to cast Rafael Nadal in a new music video and insists she picked the tennis ace to be her leading man because she 'identifies' with him.

The Colombian singer had sparked reports of a new romance with Nadal when they were photographed meeting together, shortly before filming a steamy promo for Shakira's new single 'Gypsy', reports dailystar.co.uk.

'I thought that maybe I needed someone (in the video) I could relate to in some way and Rafael is a person who has been totally committed to his career since he was very young and I identify a lot with him,' said Shakira.